The Chipolopolo Boys suffered a 2-0 defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in their opening match of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) on Thursday in Nairobi, Kenya.

DRC, who were coming off a 1-0 loss to hosts Kenya in their first match, showed intent from the first whistle, launching an attack in the opening minute. Zambia eventually settled into the game and dominated possession, but despite controlling much of the play, both sides failed to register a single shot on target in the first half, which ended goalless.

After the break, DRC came out with more urgency and broke the deadlock in the 51st minute through Ibrahim Matobo, whose strike beat Zambia goalkeeper Willard Mwanza.

The two-time CHAN champions doubled their lead in the 71st minute. Horso Mwaku found the back of the net after being set up by Oscar Kabwit Tshikomb, who capitalised on a mistake by Kelvin Kampamba to launch a swift counterattack.

The victory lifts DR Congo to second place in Group A, behind Morocco, who beat Angola 2-0 in their opener. Angola now sit bottom of the group.

Meanwhile, Zambia will face Angola on Sunday in their second group-stage match as they aim to bounce back and revive their qualification hopes.

ZAMBIA STARTING XI vs DR CONGO: Willard Mwanza (GK), Benedict Chepeshi, Killian Kanguluma, Kelvin Kampamba, Rally Bwalya, Andrew Phiri, Wilson Chisala, Jackson Kampamba, Chongo Kabaso (C), Kelvin Kapumbu, John Chishimba

SUBS: Francis Mwansa (GK), Kebson Kamanga , Happy Nsiku , Owen Tembo , Charles Zulu, Charles Kalumba (GK), Fredrick Mulambia , Kelvin Mwanza ,Dominic Chanda , Evans Kayombo , Mathews Banda, Timothy Sichalwe

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